Three Dead, One In ICU After Hantavirus Outbreak On Cruise Ship

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed an outbreak of Hantavirus linked to a cruise liner travelling in the Atlantic Ocean.

A total of six cases have been identified, with one laboratory-confirmed infection and five others classified as suspected.

The vessel was reportedly travelling from Argentina to Cape Verde when the cases emerged.

Hantavirus Outbreak: Three Dead, Patient in ICU in South Africa

According to the WHO, three people have died following the outbreak, while one patient is currently receiving treatment in intensive care in South Africa.

Reports indicate that a Johannesburg hospital is treating one of the affected patients, while another individual died in the country while being transferred to Europe.

Additional reporting suggests that a patient was moved from Ascension Island to a private facility in Sandton.

It is further reported that one victim died on arrival in Saint Helena, while another died in Johannesburg while en route to the Netherlands.

Authorities say crew members and passengers are being closely monitored, with two symptomatic individuals being prepared for medical evacuation.

What is Hantavirus and How It Spreads

Hantavirus is a rare zoonotic disease transmitted through contact with infected rodents, including rats and mice.

According to The Lancet, the virus is typically spread through exposure to rodent bodily fluids or droppings.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the virus can cause two severe conditions: haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS).

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Teen In Court For Alleged Rape, Robbery And Murder Of 79-Year-Old Woman

“Hantaviruses can infect and cause serious disease in people worldwide. People get hantavirus from contact with rodents like rats and mice.

“HPS is a severe and potentially deadly disease that affects the lungs. HFRS is a severe and sometimes deadly disease that affects the kidneys,” the CDC said.

Early symptoms may include fever, headaches, muscle pain, nausea and fatigue, which can initially resemble influenza.

Investigations into the outbreak are ongoing, with further laboratory and epidemiological assessments underway.